# Simplify

> Behavior-preserving code simplification workflow for clarity, consistency, directness, and maintainability. Use when the user asks to simplify code, run /simplify, reduce unnecessary complexity, flatten conditionals, improve naming, or make recently changed code easier to read without changing behavior.

- Skill: `whyzsm/simplify` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 4 files)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add whyzsm/simplify`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/whyzsm/simplify/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Productivity
- Author: whyzsm (https://skillmd.com/u/whyzsm)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/whyzsm/simplify

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# Simplify Code

Refactor code to make it easier to read, simpler to maintain, and more consistent with the surrounding codebase without changing what it does.

Invoke this skill with `/simplify`.

## Purpose

Use this skill when a user wants cleaner code, a more direct implementation, or a readability pass that preserves exact functionality.

## Working Principles

**Preserve functionality.** Never change behavior, outputs, side effects, or public interfaces unless the user explicitly asks for that.

**Apply project standards.** Match the existing conventions, patterns, naming style, and architectural expectations of the codebase.

**Reduce unnecessary complexity.** Flatten avoidable nesting, remove redundant abstractions, and prefer the most direct implementation that remains clear.

**Keep variables intentional.** Avoid introducing extra state unless it materially improves readability or is reused enough to justify it.

**Improve naming and structure.** Prefer clear variable and function names, and group related logic so the code reads in a straightforward way.

## Default Scope

Focus on recently modified code unless the user points to a different file, module, or diff.

## Reference

Inspired by the new Claude Code `/simplify` command:

https://x.com/bcherny/status/2027534984534544489?s=20